Who is Love Island Shaq’s ex, and why did they split up? Here’s what we know after All Stars return

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Who is Love Island Shaq's ex, and why did they split up? Here's what we know after All Stars return

Love Island‘s Shaq Muhammad has returned as part of the new All Stars 2026 lineup, but who was he with before and why did they break up? He’s been talking about his ex during the first episode of the ITV2 show’s return, and here’s everything you need to know about his past relationship.

Shaq was an OG Islander back in season nine, where he spent most of his time in the Villa coupled with Tanya Manhenga. The pair got together on day one and, despite a short time apart and a little drama, they remained together throughout that series and came fourth in the final.

ITV

Sadly it didn’t work out for Shaq and Tanya in the real world. After a year-long relationship, it was eventually confirmed by the pair – in joint social media statements – that they had broken up in August 2024.

“Hi guys, just want to say unfortunately me and Shaq are no longer together and have parted ways,” wrote Tanya at the time. “We wish each other the best and can’t thank you enough for loving us together until now! Thank you.”

Now he’s back in the Love Island Villa for All Stars, and when questioned about his ex’s reaction, Shaq is said to have revealed that they “are on good terms” (via MyLondon).

“We’re very amicable,” he said. “There’s no bad blood and I think she would just want the best for me. I want the best for her as well.”

ITV

Obviously this is All Stars, and it’s been known for exes to come face to face once again in the Villa – so could he be be open to a reunion with his ex? “I’m open to meeting other people,” Shaq told the publication. “Tanya and I have been broken up for well over a year now and we’ve moved past each other.”

When Shaq’s involvement in the All Stars lineup was announced, he said of his reason to come back: “Last time I did find love but it didn’t work out. This time round, I need to find a wife and give my mum some grandchildren! It worked last time so I feel like it could happen again hopefully!”

“I’ll always be myself, but I think I’ll give everyone more of a chance rather than closing it off with someone so early and I’ll give myself a chance to immerse myself into the experience,” he also said, explaining what he would do differently this time around.

The public matched Shaq with Leanne Amaning in the opening episode of All Stars – but the dramatic cliffhanger – which saw the arrival of first bombshell Scott van-der-Sluis – has called into question what’s going to happen next.

Love Island airs on ITV2.

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TV Editor, Digital Spy Laura has been watching television for over 30 years and professionally writing about entertainment for almost 10 of those. Previously at LOOK and now heading up the TV desk at the UK’s biggest TV and movies site Digital Spy, Laura has helped steer conversations around some of the most popular shows on the box. Laura has appeared on Channel 5 News and radio to talk viewing habits and TV recommendations. As well as putting her nerd-level Buffy knowledge to good use during an IRL meet with Sarah Michelle Gellar, Laura also once had afternoon tea with One Direction, has sat around the fire pit of the Love Island villa, spoken to Sir David Attenborough about the world’s oceans and even interviewed Rylan from inside the Big Brother house (housemate status, forever pending).